Alonso Prepares Real Madrid for Tough Clash Against Rayo Vallecano
Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso addressed the media in a pre-match press conference ahead of his team’s encounter with Rayo Vallecano at the Estadio de Vallecas, scheduled for Sunday at 17:15. The Spanish manager covered a range of topics from the team’s morale and player performances to their recent loss at Anfield and the challenges of the upcoming match.
Team Morale and New Project
Alonso began by discussing the atmosphere within the squad and the fresh energy surrounding the club. “We have launched a new project, and the excitement is what fuels me. Ego? We have many talented players with strong character,” he stated, reflecting a positive outlook for the season.
Assessment of Rayo Vallecano
The coach also praised Rayo Vallecano and their head coach, Iñigo Pérez, highlighting the organization and clarity of their playing style. “I follow his teams closely. He inherited the role from Iraola, and his team is very structured with a clear style. I admire his personality,” Alonso remarked. He acknowledged the challenge posed by Vallecano, stating, “They are an excellent team with a great coach. They maintain stability and execute their style of play perfectly. We will need to be very mature; there will be no easy moments in the game.”
Player Updates
When asked about the potential for Rodrigo to play on the right side, Alonso noted, “It’s a possibility. He has dstart it quite a bit in the past.” He also provided updates on Federico Valverde, who has recently played as a wing-back. “Due to circumstances, he played as an attacking full-back and did it excellently. He’s always ready to help, and that’s an option we are considering again,” he explained.
Reflection on Recent Loss
Addressing the recent defeat at Anfield, Alonso insisted the team has moved past that disappointment. “The game has been analyzed and discussed. We are ready now, and our thoughts are already on the match at Vallecas,” he stated. He expressed confidence in his players’ approach, saying, “We want to be consistent and prepared for every game. Not every match is the same, and I have no complaints about the players’ mentality.”
Mental Preparation and Match Expectations
Alonso stressed the importance of mental preparation for the upcoming game, stating, “Every match is the most important. We approach each game with the same mentality. Right now, our focus is Rayo Vallecano, and in the league, we want to maintain the pace we have established.” He concluded by acknowledging the difficulty of playing at Vallecas, “It’s start of the toughest fixtures in the league, not only due to Rayo’s good form but because it’s always challenging to play there. We are prepared for an intense and fast-paced match.”
As Real Madrid gears up for this critical clash, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see if Alonso’s strategies can lead the team to victory against a formidable Rayo Vallecano side.